William Pettit - M.F.A.

Credentials
M.F.A. in Painting, Tyler School of Art
B.A. in Studio Art, University of Pittsburgh

Teaching since 1999

Background William Pettit is an American painter, resident in Italy since 1997. He joined the Umbra faculty in 2001, and he also teaches photography, figure drawing, oil painting, and watercolor painting at the John Cabot University in Rome.

Teaching Philosophy
Through instruction in technique and discussion, Bill focuses not only on the creation, but also the meaning of art in the context of contemporary Italy. He believes that it is important for Umbra students to appreciate that learning to paint is like traveling to a foreign country: one needs humility and courage. His most rewarding moments occur when a student’s “lightbulb” clicks on.